For an entire generation of gearheads, it started here: with the 1968 introduction of Hot Wheels, Mattel’s revolutionary pocket-sized toy cars. See the very first television commercial here.
Introduced in 1968, the Mattel’s Hot Wheels line of miniature cars changed the toy industry forever. They were colorful, inexpensive, nearly indestructible, and offered in near-infinite variety, starting with the original lineup of 16 models, which collectors today call the “Sweet 16.”
The little diecast autos were an immediate smash hit, a true sensation for the toy business, and they remain so to this day. It’s said that more than four billion have been manufactured over the past 49 years. This original 1968 commercial from Mattel’s, which also showcases the collectors’ sets and—who can forget—the familiar orange racetrack, captures the almost magical appeal for a generation of young gearheads. Enjoy.
Cool dude!
Yep, they sure made an impression on this (then) eight-year-old. Had to be one of the greatest toy ideas ever. I eventually had fifteen of the first sixteen (plus about thirty more). Played the heck out of ’em with my friends. Then we moved on to slot cars, model cars, and then, finally, the real thing! Surprisingly, I hung on to my Hot Wheels until the early 2000’s, when I sold the lot for $650.